The 2024 Chicago Cubs haven't had much to smile about.
Chicago has been a model of mediocrity and disappointment, with some of their highest-paid stars showing signs of decline far sooner than expected.
Not everything is depressing at Wrigley Field, however, especially when one considers the year that first baseman Michael Busch is having.
Busch's production during his rookie season has been a pleasant surprise, made all the sweeter given the overall state of the Cubs.
Despite Busch's defensive consistency and plate prowess, however, he's still flying under the radar in the national media, an injustice that prompted Just Baseball's Tim Kelly to name Busch the No. 10 most underrated player in Major League Baseball this season.
"It’s been a disappointing campaign for the Cubs, but Busch’s emergence has been one of the few silver linings," Kelly said.
"As he was blocked by Freddie Freeman in Los Angeles, the Cubs struck a deal to acquire Busch from the Dodgers in January. In his rookie season, Busch has shined on both sides of the ball, with 16 home runs, 45 RBIs and an .806 OPS."
"Defensively, Busch should be a Gold Glove candidate, as he’s posted nine defensive runs saved and four outs above average."
Busch is just 26 years old, and is under team control with Chicago through 2029.
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